Tuesday, July 23, 2019

EMMA

VINTAGE THEATRE: 7/12 – 8/18

Sara Risner and Stephen Krusoe

Sara Risner is luminous as EMMA in this romantic comedy by Rachel Atkins, which is based upon the novel by Jane Austen. Whether her character’s advising those around her on social manners or playing and singing at the piano, one can simply not take his eyes off her.

One can always depend upon director Craig A. Bond’s eye for impeccable casting.

Damon Guerrasio is as amusing as Mr. Elton as Victoria Pace is irritating as his wife. Ms. Pace leaves one and all breathless as she steals a number of scenes just by being the most off-putting character in memory.

Stephen Krusoe anchors the piece with a solid portrayal of Mr. Knightly.

Bethany Luhrs is a total delight as Emma's naive young friend, Harriet Smith.

It’s a joy to see Wade Livingston onstage once again as Mr. Woodhouse, Emma’s father.

Chip Winn Wells adds much to the proceedings as the aged mother of Miss Bates, a winning Christine Kahane.

Director Bond has also created an eye-pleasing set which manages to give us the illusion that the intimate Bond-Trimble theatre contains a sprawling playing space. Even though it's not. Bond’s design allows for a fluid progression of scenes that does not require the constant black-outs less talented directors might have chosen. As a result, the show moves at a steady clip and the audience remains engaged throughout. The set is beautifully appointed with antique furniture and art work of the era.

Susan Rahmsdorff-Terry provides us with elegant costuming for the cast. The ladies’ frocks, especially those designed for Ms.Risner, dazzle.

Rick Reid’s sound design embellishes the proceedings with the sounds of the horses and carriages arriving and departing.